red eyed tree frog (agalychnis callidryas)

Red-Eyed Tree Frog (Agalychnis callidryas): The Iconic Rainforest Amphibian

Few amphibians are as instantly recognizable and universally admired as the red eyed tree frog (agalychnis callidryas) With its vibrant green body, striking red eyes, and bright orange toes, this species has become a symbol of tropical rainforests and is a must-have for amphibian hobbyists. Native to Central America, these frogs are not only visually stunning—they’re also relatively easy to care for in captivity when their needs are met.

Whether you’re a seasoned keeper or new to amphibians, the Red-Eyed Tree Frog makes an excellent display pet. You can find captive-bred specimens and all the necessary supplies at OneStopReptileShop.com, your trusted source for exotic amphibians.

What Makes the Red-Eyed Tree Frog So Special?

The red eyed tree frog (agalychnis callidryas)) is a small arboreal amphibian native to tropical rainforests in countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama. It is perhaps best known for its dramatic color contrast—especially those unmistakable red eyes used to startle predators in a defense behavior known as “startle coloration.”

Key Traits:

• Size: 2–3 inches (females larger than males)

• Color: Bright green body, red eyes, blue and yellow sides, orange toes

• Lifespan: 5–10 years in captivity

• Activity: Nocturnal

• Temperament: Skittish but harmless

Their stunning appearance and active nighttime behaviors make them an exciting amphibian to observe—especially under blue LED night lighting.

Ideal Enclosure Setup

The red eyed tree frog (agalychnis callidryas) is an arboreal species, meaning it prefers vertical space and foliage to climb and hide in. A tall terrarium with plenty of climbing areas is essential.

Enclosure Recommendations:

• Tank Size: 18” x 18” x 24” or larger (Exo Terra or Zoo Med vertical tanks)

• Substrate: Coconut fiber or ABG mix with drainage layer

• Humidity: 70–90% (misting twice daily or using an automatic fogger)

• Temperature: 74–82°F (day), slight drop at night

• Lighting: UVB optional, but a natural day/night cycle is necessary

• Décor: Live or artificial plants, branches, cork bark, and vines

You can buy all these habitat essentials and ready-to-house Red-Eyed Tree Frogs at OneStopReptileShop.com, your go-to destination for everything exotic amphibians need.

Feeding Your Red-Eyed Tree Frog

These frogs are insectivores and require a diet of live, gut-loaded insects. Feed them 3–4 times per week in the evening when they’re most active.

Common Feeders:

• Crickets

• Dubia roaches

• Black soldier fly larvae

• Silkworms

• Small hornworms

Dust feeders with calcium (with and without D3 on a rotation) and multivitamin powder weekly. A healthy red eyed tree frog (agalychnis callidryas) will be alert, responsive, and plump without being overweight.

Handling and Behavior

While their looks invite touching, red eyed tree frog (agalychnis callidryas) are delicate creatures with sensitive skin. They are best appreciated as display pets rather than handled often.

Tips:

• Handle only when necessary (e.g., tank cleaning)

• Always wash your hands before and after handling

• Use moist hands or latex-free gloves to avoid skin damage

These frogs are shy during the day and become more active at night, often climbing, calling, and hunting. Their behavior is a delight to observe in a properly maintained vivarium.

Breeding in Captivity

Breeding Red-Eyed Tree Frogs requires a rain chamber and careful environmental simulation. With the right cues, they will lay eggs on plant leaves over water.

Breeding Requirements:

• Male/female ratio of 1:1 or 2:1

• Mist heavily or simulate rainfall

• Provide broad leaves and a shallow water basin

• Incubate eggs at high humidity until tadpole stage

Tadpoles are aquatic and must be separated into a separate tank to grow before metamorphosing into froglets.

Why Buy from OneStopReptileShop?

At OneStopReptileShop.com, we offer healthy, captive-bred Red-Eyed Tree Frogs backed by expert support and fast, safe shipping. We also stock all essential supplies, from live feeders to full terrarium kits.

Why Choose Us:

• Live Arrival Guarantee

• Expert care tips and guidance

• Captive-bred, healthy frogs only

• Complete habitat kits and feeders

• Responsive customer support

Shop confidently knowing you’re getting the best quality frogs and care gear available online.

Conclusion

The red eyed tree frog (agalychnis callidryas) is a living jewel of the rainforest that brings beauty and charm to any reptile room or tropical vivarium. With its brilliant colors, relatively easy care requirements, and captivating nocturnal behavior, it remains one of the most sought-after amphibians in the pet trade.

If you’re ready to bring one home, check out OneStopReptileShop.com for healthy, captive-bred Red-Eyed Tree Frogs and the best supplies to ensure they thrive.